12 авг. 2014 г.

Nigatsu-do Hall in Todaiji Temple

Underrated, beautiful mid-17th century architecture

By Karen Zheng

Community writer

A view from the balcony of Nigatsu-do Hall

Clean your hands or face before entering the temple

O-mikuji - a form of fortune telling commonly found in Japanese temples and shrines

Slow down, sit and enjoy the scenery of Nara.

Designated as a National Treasure, Nigatsu-do Hall (also known as Hall of the Second Month) is located within the famous Todai-ji temple in Nara. Although many visitors know of the Great Buddha Hall in Todai-ji, only a fraction would explore the sacred ground further to discover other precious monuments. Recommended by a kind tourist representative at the Nara Information Tourist Office, I decided to visit Nigatsu-do Hall and was awed by this beautiful mid-17th century architecture and its quaint view of Nara city. Don't miss it the next time that you visit! And another great thing? It's free admission.